August 24

Born Girolamo Francesco Maria Mazzola in Parma in 1503, he later became known as Parmigianino for his delicate style. A student of Correggio, he developed a refined Mannerist approach characterized by graceful proportions. His works include the iconic 'Madonna with the Long Neck' and a masterpiece self-portrait on a convex mirror. During his time in Rome, he mingled with prominent artists but faced legal troubles over unfinished commissions. Returning to Parma, he established a workshop and contributed to decorative projects in local churches and palaces. Parmigianino died unexpectedly in 1540, leaving an enduring influence on late Renaissance art.

Nicholas Stone (1586–1647) was a pioneering English sculptor and architect who introduced classical styles to British sculpture. He served as Master Mason to King James I and later to Charles I, overseeing royal building projects and grand monuments. His notable works include stunning funerary sculptures at Westminster Abbey and elaborate tombs in parish churches. Stone's fusion of Italianate elegance with English traditions influenced generations of sculptors and architects. He also managed a successful workshop, establishing a professional legacy continued by his sons.

Ferdinand Bol (1616–1680) was a leading artist of the Dutch Golden Age and one of Rembrandt's most talented students. He created a prolific body of work, including refined portraits, historical compositions, and elegant biblical scenes characterized by warm color palettes. Bol also mastered etching and printmaking, helping to popularize both his own designs and those of his teacher. Later in life, he was appointed a city engineer in Amsterdam, earning civic recognition in addition to artistic acclaim. His graceful style bridged Rembrandt’s dramatic chiaroscuro with emerging classical sensibilities in 17th-century Dutch art.

Theodore Hook was born in 1788 and began a career in the British civil service while cultivating his talents as a composer and writer. He penned popular songs and comic sketches that entertained London society in the early 19th century. Hook gained notoriety for orchestrating an elaborate postal hoax in 1810, which pranked the Prince Regent and showcased his flair for satire. His musical compositions, including ballads and operatic pieces, were celebrated for their clever lyrics and memorable melodies. Hook’s dual life as a government official and creative artist exemplified the vibrant cultural scene of Regency England. He passed away in 1841, leaving behind a diverse artistic legacy.

Born in 1874, Frederick Carl Frieseke studied at the Art Institute of Chicago and the Académie Julian in Paris before settling in Giverny. There, he joined the colony of American artists inspired by Claude Monet, producing luminous depictions of women in interiors and gardens. His innovative use of broken color and delicate brushwork earned him acclaim on both sides of the Atlantic. Frieseke exhibited regularly at the Paris Salon and the Pennsylvania Academy of the Fine Arts. As a respected teacher, he influenced a generation of Impressionist painters. His work remains prized for its elegance and tonal harmony.

Born in Buenos Aires in 1886, Antonio Alice trained at the National Academy of Fine Arts under Ernesto de la Cárcova. He won the prestigious Prix de Rome in 1910, allowing him to study in Europe and refine his classical style. Alice's work includes poignant portraits of public figures and large-scale historical scenes, such as his famous Death of Güemes. As a dedicated educator at the Academy, he mentored many emerging Argentine artists. His contributions helped shape the national identity of Argentine painting. Alice's legacy endures in museums and public collections across Argentina.

Born in 1898 in Tokyo, Kenji Mizoguchi began his career as a benshi (film narrator) before transitioning to directing and screenwriting. He directed over 100 films between the silent era and postwar Japan, with masterpieces like Osaka Elegy, Ugetsu, and Sansho the Bailiff. Mizoguchi's signature style features long, flowing takes, meticulous composition, and deep empathy for his female characters. His exploration of social injustices and cultural tradition earned him international acclaim, influencing filmmakers worldwide. Mizoguchi's films remain central to the canon of global cinema for their profound artistry and emotional depth.

Born in Belfast in 1876, Paul Henry studied art in Londonderry and Paris before returning to his homeland. He captured the rugged beauty of Connemara and the west coast with a distinctive use of muted tones and bold composition. Henry exhibited widely across Ireland and Europe, earning acclaim for his atmospheric depictions of rural life. As an educator, he taught at the Dublin Municipal School of Art and influenced a generation of Irish artists. He remained active in painting and teaching until his death in 1958, leaving a lasting legacy in Irish art.

Born in 1910 in New Orleans, Louis Prima began performing professionally as a teenager. He led popular big bands in the 1930s and 1940s, combining jazz, swing, and Italian-American musical traditions. Prima scored hits with songs like 'Sing, Sing, Sing' and the medley 'Just a Gigolo / I Ain’t Got Nobody'. He also lent his voice as King Louie in Disney’s 'The Jungle Book'. Known for his flamboyant stage presence and humor, Prima continued entertaining audiences until his death in 1978, influencing generations of musicians.

Born in 1906, Paul Creston studied composition at the Curtis Institute under Rosario Scalero. Over his career, he composed more than 100 works including symphonies, concertos, and solo pieces noted for rhythmic vitality and clear structures. Creston's pedagogical approach led him to teach at institutions such as Brooklyn College and Queens College, mentoring future generations of musicians. His compositions earned awards like the New Jersey Music League Award and the Elizabeth Sprague Coolidge Prize. He published educational materials and advocated for accessible music education until his death in 1985.

Alexandre Lagoya was born in 1929 in Alexandria. He rose to prominence as a classical guitarist, celebrated for his technical mastery and expressive performances. He formed a renowned duo with his wife Ida Presti, revolutionizing duo guitar repertoire. Lagoya also composed works that expanded the boundaries of classical guitar music. He served as a professor at the Paris Conservatory, influencing generations of guitarists. His legacy endures through recordings and compositions that remain staples in the guitar world.

Roman Matsov was born in 1917 in Tallinn, Estonia. He studied violin and piano before focusing on conducting. Matsov became artistic director of the Estonian National Symphony Orchestra, leading acclaimed performances. He championed both classical masterpieces and works by Estonian composers, promoting national music. His dual talents as a string player and keyboardist informed his sensitive conducting style. He influenced Estonia’s cultural landscape until his death in 2001.